Kajun Kuisine: Southern Fare Specialties Done Right

Folks from Texas know that some of the region's culinary specialties just can't be replicated anywhere else, and most of the dishes at Kajun Kuisine fall into that category. This Universal City restaurant specializes in dishes like spicy crawfish etouffee served with your choice of sides (the collard greens and cornbread are good choices) and sweet, Cajun-spiced baby back ribs, slow-cooked until they’re so tender they're nearly falling off the bone (pair these with mac and cheese and green beans for a full meal).

The atmosphere at this restaurant is casual, and everything on the menu is reasonably priced, though value-minded diners should especially consider the daily specials and combination plates. Finally, know that the service at Kajun Kuisine is cafeteria-style, so be prepared to serve yourself, and know that you'll be able to pick and choose whatever combination of dishes strikes your fancy.

Kajun Kuisine
2053 Universal City Boulevard
Universal City, TX 78148
(210) 236-8834
kajunkuisine.com
www.yelp.com/biz/kajun-kuisine-universal-city

La Fiesto Patio Café: Indulge in Tex-Mex Fare Without the Extra Calories

While Tex-Mex cuisine is known for its spicy flavor and eclectic blend of ingredients, it’s definitely not the healthiest food out there. Lucky for Universal City Tex-Mex lovers, La Fiesto Patio Café offers the same tacos, enchiladas, and other delicious dishes without all of the lard, white rice, or excessive sodium. La Fiesto uses all natural whole grains and brown rice as the base for its dishes, while fresh herbs and spices add delicious flavor without the use of salts or artificial seasonings.

The signature “puffy tacos” are the restaurant’s most popular items, and they get their name from their crispy shells of corn masa stuffed with generous portions of beef, chicken, tofu, or beans. La Fiesto also offers a full vegetarian and vegan menu that includes a wide variety of dishes that far exceed the usual salads.

La Fiesto Patio Café is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

La Fiesto Patio Café
1421 Pat Booker Road
Universal City, TX 78148
(210) 658-5110
www.fiestapatiocafe.com
www.yelp.com/biz/la-fiesta-patio-cafe-universal-city

How to Remove Stubborn Grass, Oil and Sweat Stains

You're elated that your child's slide into homebase cinched the game; you're not so happy about the grass stain that you need to remove when you get home. Keep these stain-fighting tips handy so you can meet common household stains with a plan of attack.

To remove grass stains:
This tip should help save Junior's uniform: As soon as possible, pretreat the grass stain with liquid detergent, then rinse thoroughly. If the garment can be bleached (check the label), then soak the garment in a diluted solution of bleach and water for no longer than fifteen minutes. If you'd prefer to steer clear of bleach, you can try rubbing a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda into the grass stain, letting it sit, then rinsing.

To remove oil-based stains:
Oil-based stains include mayonnaise, salad dressings, cooking oils, butter, face creams, and grease. First, apply talcum powder or cornstarch directly to the stain; this will help absorb the oil but may require several applications. Scrape or brush off the powder between applications, then toss the garment into the wash on a regular cycle.

To remove sweat stains:
Sweat stains are equally embarrassing and stubborn, but can be conquered if you follow the correct steps. Attack the stain with a cocktail of equal parts water and lemon juice, then hang the garment outside in the sunshine. (You'll need nice weather for this one.) The sunlight will help bleach the stain.

17 Easy Stain Removal Tips [Lifescript]
The Entertainer’s Guide to Stain Removal [Real Simple]
Quick 'n Easy Stain Removal [Ohio State University]

Get Inspired at San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum is committed to collecting, preserving, and interpreting fine works of art, and there's no better place in the city to get your creative juices flowing. Wander through the galleries and gaze at paintings by Renaissance masters, or admire exquisite examples of 18th-century Wedgewood stoneware. The Asian art collection includes impossibly intricate 15th-century Vietnamese sculptures, while the museum's contemporary collection features avant garde pieces like Ivan Navarro's neon-lit interpretation of an electric chair.

It's easy to spend a full day trying to see everything at the museum, so make sure you allow plenty of time for your visit so you don't feel rushed. In addition to being accessible by car, the museum is a B-cycle station, and you can use your visit as an opportunity to get some exercise. Alternatively, you can arrive by river taxi and enjoy the breeze and open air.

San Antonio Museum of Art
200 West Jones Avenue
San Antonio, TX 78215
(210) 978-8100
www.samuseum.org
www.yelp.com/biz/san-antonio-museum-of-art-san-antonio

Bedding 101: How Often to Wash Your Bed Linens

You probably know the exact amount of time your favorite tee or trusty pair of jeans can go between washes, but can you say the same for your bedding? If you're confused about how often you should be changing your sheets, check out our handy guide below.

Sheets
Because we come in contact with our bedding on a daily basis, it's important to maintain a regular laundering schedule. Sheets should be changed every one to two weeks, or more often as needed. Wash sheets in the warmest temperature allowed by the fabric. Adding a quarter cup of lemon juice to the wash water is a natural way to bleach white sheets.

Pillows
Pillowcases should follow the guidelines of sheets. Pillow covers, like those that prevent allergies, should be washed twice per month, while the pillow itself should be tossed in the wash at least twice per year. Washing two pillows together can help keep the washer balanced. Run the pillows through the rinse cycle twice, then dry them in the dryer until no moisture remains; dampness can lead to mold.

Comforters
As with any bedding that comes in direct contact with the body, duvet covers and decorative quilts should be washed weekly. However, if your comforter is encased by a duvet cover, then the comforter itself only needs to be washed as you see fit. Be sure to use an industrial-sized washer equipped to handle the weight of a heavy comforter.

Is this the schedule you follow? Any tips for breezing through laundry day? Let us know!

Bedding Care 101 [Martha Stewart]
The Importance Of Washing Bed Sheets Regularly [Symptom Find]
The When-to-Wash-It Handbook [Real Simple]
How Often Should I…? [Quick and Dirty Tips]

Thai Spice & Sushi: Hurry In for Delicious Curry

Thai cuisine is beloved for its hearty, filling noodle bowls, flavorful curries, and intense spice levels that might intimidate even the most daring diners. Thai Spice & Sushi is one of the most authentic Thai eateries in the Selma area, and it features all of the usual Thai fare favorites along with a full sushi bar.

Dishes like pad Thai and panang curry offer an authentic Thai influence, and the menu also lists other Asian fare favorites, like fried rice and egg rolls. At the sushi bar, guests can order classic California rolls, sashimi, and more creative maki rolls made fresh upon ordering. There is also a full beer and wine list for of-age guests.

On the inside, Thai Spice is clean and modern and quite a bit larger than the usual Thai take-out spot. There is a full dining room with spacious tables, a sleek sushi bar with ample seating, and colorful artwork lining every wall to create a global feel.

Thai Spice & Sushi
8327 Agora Parkway
Selma, TX 78154
(210) 658-1665
www.thaispicesushisa.com
www.yelp.com/biz/thai-spice-and-sushi-selma-2

Where to Shop Handmade Jewelry from Indie Artists Online

Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring or simply looking for something sparkly to add to your own jewelry collection, pieces from indie designers exude a unique quality that sets them apart from the rest. These handcrafted jewelry items are often made in more environmentally friendly ways, and they usually cost much less than name-brand jewelry. Here are three great online sources for indie bling.

Catbird
Since it first opened the doors of its Brooklyn brick and mortar store almost 10 years ago, Catbird has been one of New York City’s most popular destinations for unique, affordable jewelry from independent designers. Now the shop also offers an expansive online store that allows web surfers to shop its signature dainty gold necklaces, stackable rings, and engagement rings at all price points.

Etsy
Etsy is democratizing the way that jewelry is sold by enabling independent designers to set up their own shops through the site’s online marketplace. Whether you’re searching for woven friendship bracelets or hammered gold rings, you’ll find it all via the simple search tools.

Bario Neal
Although many jewelry companies obtain their diamonds through the diamond trade, Bario Neal uses only ethically sourced stones and reclaimed precious metals that are cruelty-free and eco-friendly. This Philadelphia-based jewelry boutique and studio sells engagement rings, pendant necklaces, enamel bracelets, and much more.

Bahama Buck’s: Get Tropical With a Cool Shaved Ice

Cool off on a hot Texas day with a trip through the drive-through at Bahama Buck’s. This sweet dessert spot in the heart of Universal City serves shaved ice in a wide variety of flavors, from sour watermelon to sweet birthday cake. Bahama Buck’s also offers unique items like the coffee-infused Frostalattes, iced lemonades and limeades, and island smoothies. If you’re looking for something a bit healthier, the lighter menu includes the same delicious items with less fat and fewer calories.

Because it's famous for flavorful shaved ice, this small shop is especially popular during the warmer summer months, but you’ll often find a line out the door all year-round. The inside of Bahama Buck’s is fairly small with only a few tables scattered throughout, but there is a convenient drive-through outside for those who want to take their treats to go.

Bahama Buck’s
2310 Pat Brooker Road
Universal City, TX 78148
(210) 437-1091
www.bahamabucks.com
www.yelp.com/biz/bahama-bucks-universal-city

Randolph Oaks Golf Course: Practice Your Swing on a 18-hole Championship Course

Located at the Joint Base San Antonio, the Randolph Oaks Golf Course is a popular destination among seasoned players and casual duffers alike. This 7,172 yard, 18-hole championship course boasts manicured greens, placid water features, and other elements to ensure your game is memorable.

Those looking to improve their swing can sign up for lessons from the course's professional instructors. If you prefer to practice solo, however, note that the course also hosts a practice putting green and a driving range, the latter of which is lighted, so you can hone your skills as the sun sets in the horizon.

After your game, refuel with a burger or some chicken wings at Mulligan's Grill, the course's on-site restaurant, or for something a little more low-key, sidle up to the full bar at the Tee Time Deck. Swing by the pro shop to stock up on the latest golf gear and equipment from top-name makers, and don't hesitate to bring in those old clubs in need of repairs.

Randolph Oaks Golf Course
Building 1300
Randolph Air Force Base, TX 78150
(210) 652-4653
www.randolphfss.com/cm/templates/golf.asp?articleid=17
www.yelp.com/biz/randolph-oaks-golf-course-randolph-afb

Don’t Miss the Fried Chicken and Peach Cobbler at Pappy G’s Country Kitchen

Southern fare is the draw at Pappy G's Country Kitchen, a casual restaurant that hosts a smattering of checkered cloth-covered tables and booths within its open dining room. Dressed in his white chef's coat, restaurant founder Pappy is a frequent fixture in the dining room, too. In fact, he's likely to make a stop by your table to ensure your meal meets your expectations—or just to crack a joke.

Regulars of this soul food eatery will attest that everything on the menu is worth trying, but particular praise is heaped upon the fried chicken, which is reportedly crispy and moist and pairs nicely with a bite of creamy macaroni and cheese. Meatloaf is just like Mom used to make, while the blackened tilapia and fried fish baskets are flavorful enough to make fans out of even the staunchest landlubber. (Don't pass over the freshly baked corn bread muffins!) Be sure to request two spoons if you order the peach cobbler; this sweet dessert is presented in a large sundae dish and can easily serve two.

Pappy G’s Country Kitchen is open Wednesdays through Sundays.

Pappy G’s Country Kitchen
1210 Pat Booker Road
Universal City, TX 78148
(210) 659-7799
www.pappygs.com
www.yelp.com/biz/pappy-gs-country-kitchen-universal-city

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